WIREDGOV

The dairy industry looks set to smash targets for cutting the impact producing dairy products has on the environment.

One year after launching the Milk Roadmap, first indications are that the industry is well on the way towards the first set of milestones in 2010.

Farming Minister, Jim Fitzpatrick said:

“This has been a tough year for people in the dairy industry, but that hasn’t dented their determination to cut its impact on the environment.

In the future, all our food industries are going to need to do more to meet the challenges of climate change and conserving and preserving our natural resources. The dairy industry has shown what can be done in a short time, and has set a clear benchmark for other food businesses.

“This is a challenge every sector will need to meet. Later this month, we will be publishing a comprehensive assessment of the UK’s food security, and alongside it we will be looking for views on new food sustainability indicators. Together, these will give food businesses and others a clear picture of where the risks and challenges to delivering sustainable and secure food are, and where they can make changes to produce food as sustainably as possible.”

Dairy producers committed to have half of dairy managed farmland in Environmental Schemes by 2010 and have already hit 45 per cent, one year ahead of schedule.

Milk processors are working with partners in the supply chain and are on track to incorporate 10 per cent of recycled plastic into milk bottles by the end of 2010.

Nearly half of dairy farmers have a Nutrient Management Plan which looks promising for their 2010 target of 65 per cent. Enormous strides have been made with water conservation – with over 70 per cent of farmers questioned in a recent water survey making changes to the management of clean water on their farms.

Retailers have also been doing their bit to ensure that their stores and logistics operations become more energy efficient. One major supermarket has slashed in store energy use by 50 per cent since 2000.

Contacts:

Defra Press Office
NDS.DEFRA@coi.gsi.gov.uk

Rosie Moss
Phone: 020 7238 5610
rosie.moss@defra.gsi.gov.uk